Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Psychology?

The study of psychology helps students gain a deeper understanding of the human condition. Why do people act the way they do? What is the human brain capable of? What shapes our personality? How do we learn and change throughout our life? The mission of the Department of Psychology undergraduate program is to educate students about the major research findings and theories in the field of Psychology and to train them to use an empirical approach for understanding human behavior.


Professor Chanel Meyers presenting to a class

Major in Psychology

Our students receive a solid grounding in the scientific method through hands-on research opportunities. Specifically, the psychology program endeavors to provide students with:

  • Broad exposure to the basic concepts, theories, findings, and ethical issues of psychology. 
  • Education in the scientific method including hands-on research opportunities.
  • Strong critical thinking and written communication skills, including the ability to evaluate and convey the evidence for claims regarding human behavior.
  • Applied experience through internship and practicum opportunities at partnering community organizations.

Psychology major Lynn Nashawi presenting a research poster

Honors in Psychology

Honors students obtain valuable experience in designing, carrying out, and writing up a substantial project for the senior honors thesis. Both experiences lead to stronger faculty recommendations for future training.

Honors Requirements


Psychology student Sophia Mauelshagen

Conducting Lab Research

“Since the end of my sophomore year, I've been a research assistant in the Cognitive Dynamics Lab, where I've learned a great deal about the nitty-gritty behind the scenes of data collection! In addition, I am conducting research for a psychology honors thesis in the Social Cognition Lab, which has given me an abundance of knowledge about all the stages of research. Being a part of both labs has greatly enriched my educational experience and taught me about different ways to understand the world cognitively."

—Sophia Mauelshagen, psychology major, '23


Lab technician examining an MRI brain scan

Get Real-World Experience

Gain a competitive edge within your chosen career by developing practical job skills in the field. Psychology students can apply their skills and extend their learning beyond the classroom through faculty-led research projects, practicum placements, and other hands-on learning opportunities.

Hands-on Learning


Psychology major Aly Weir

Preparing for Life after College

“My experience in the psychology department has been filled with insightful professors, numerous opportunities to grow, and helpful peers. Through being a department peer advisor, I have been able to expand my skills and learn more about the avenues of the psychology major. I am thankful that through my experience in the department, I feel ready to take on life after graduation.”

—Aly Weir, psychology major, '23


Psychology Clinic consultation

What You Can Do with a Psychology Degree

A Psychology degree provides a solid foundation in the major research findings and theories within in the field of psychology and trains you to use an empirical approach toward understanding human behavior. You'll develop a diverse skill set that prepares you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and actual jobs our alumni have landed.

Explore Careers


Peer advising

Advising and Academic Support

Our peer advisors, graduate student advisors, and faculty advisors are available throughout the academic year to help you explore experiential learning opportunities, prepare for graduate school, or pursue your career goals. Make an advising appointment or take advantage of our drop-in hours.

Departmental Advising and Support


Scholarships and Awards

Psychology majors can apply for many different scholarships and awards through the UO College of Arts and Sciences, which offers both financial need and academic merit scholarships. The Department of Psychology also offers funding through the Leona Tyler Scholarship and the Alice Thompson Scholarship.

Explore Scholarships and Awards


Events

Department of History Coffee Hour
May27
Department of History Coffee Hour May 27 McKenzie Hall
The Center of the World: A Global History of the Persian Gulf
May27
The Center of the World: A Global History of the Persian Gulf May 27 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Spanish Immersion Programs Information Session
May28
Spanish Immersion Programs Information Session May 28 Anstett Hall
Writing Lab Writing and Research Support Drop-In Event
May29
Writing Lab Writing and Research Support Drop-In Event May 29 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
CLLAS/Latinx Studies Undergraduate Awards Ceremony & Mixer
May30
CLLAS/Latinx Studies Undergraduate Awards Ceremony & Mixer May 30 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Cinema Studies and University Film Organization Present: UO Film Festival
May30
Cinema Studies and University Film Organization Present: UO Film Festival May 30 Lawrence Hall
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
May30
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE May 30 Miller Theatre Complex
gradCONNECT: Trip to the Coast
May31
gradCONNECT: Trip to the Coast May 31 Oregon Coast
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
May31
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE May 31 Miller Theatre Complex
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE
Jun1
THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Jun 1 Miller Theatre Complex